Acer launches LumiRead e-book reader

The LumiRead has been announced on the same day that the iPad became available in the UK, and is pitched as a "travel companion".

The device can play audio books, and Acer has inked deals with stores including Barnes & Noble to allow users to access titles wirelessly.

The LumiRead comes with 2GB Flash memory, which can be expanded using MicroSD cards. Acer estimates that the device can hold up to 1,500 books with the standard memory.

The case is less than 1cm thick and "delivers a paper-like reading experience, even under bright sunlight", according to Acer. An inbuilt ISBN scanner can be used to build up a wish list of books to access online later.

Acer has not supplied pricing information for the LumiRead, which has received an early airing before the Computex event in Taiwan next week.

The LumiRead forms part of the 'Clear.fi' product range at Acer expected to appear at Computex.